The new International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures for Wood Packaging Material (FAO-ISPM No. 15), introduced in March 2002, should break down the worldwide trade barriers caused by the maze of import restrictions for wood packaging. These restrictions were adopted by various countries out of fear that wood packaging would serve as a pathway for living pest (for example the pinewood nematode or the Asian Longhorned Beetle) during transport, which has happened several times in the past. The recognised measures of the international standards should prevent this risk.

The recognised measures under ISPM No. 15 are:

Heat treatment of wood packaging, by achieving a minimum wood core temperature of 56 degrees Celsius for a minimum of 30 minutes.

Methyl bromide fumigation according to established standards.

In addition, the standards advise to use debarked wood.

After the introduction of the new international standards, several countries immediately started implementing the measures and it is expected that countries such as the United States, Canada, Mexico and China will implement the standards as of January 1, 2004. The European Union will in its turn start requiring third countries to comply with the standards for import in the EU. The new international standards will not apply to cross-border transport within the European Union.

In reaction to the introduction of the world standard, the Dutch have founded the Stichting Markering Houten Verpakkingen (SMHV). This foundation regulates the marking system in the Netherlands according to the international standards. By that, worldwide trouble-free transport is guaranteed to buyers and/or users of wood packaging. Every Dutch manufacturer, trader and/or repairer of wood packaging can put in a request to participate in the Dutch marking programme at the SMHV. This will be reviewed by an independent inspection agency, SGS Nederland B.V., which in its turn will advise the SMHV. After approval, a unique registration number will be issued, as component of the (international) mark.

Naturally, Stam Hout Pallets & Kisten B.V. has applied immediately for participation in the marking programme. Although the introduction demands large investments of a company and its personnel, the various requirements were no obstacle at all for a modern company such as Stam. Therefore, as one of the first pallet producing companies, Stam Hout Pallets & Kisten B.V. has been certified by the SMHV and is now registered under number 23. From now on, if you need wood packaging - such as pallets and crates - for the export of goods, you can safely rely on our company!!!

Finally we conclude with a brief overview of the import restrictions for wood packaging, as specified by the various countries: